Norman,
There are many considerations we're aware of today that were not well known or appreciated in the 1950s and early '60s.
Another example was cartridge alignment (overhang and offset). While some engineers studied this even pre-WW2, it did not become more broadly known until the mid-late '70s after an article by Mitch Cotter was published in "The Audio Critic". That magazine may have elicited concerns for other reasons but credit is due for raising awareness to the importance of proper cartridge alignment.
In spite of such limitations, some older tables such as the AR-XA are still capable of providing a satisfying musical experience, just as you learned.
There are many considerations we're aware of today that were not well known or appreciated in the 1950s and early '60s.
Another example was cartridge alignment (overhang and offset). While some engineers studied this even pre-WW2, it did not become more broadly known until the mid-late '70s after an article by Mitch Cotter was published in "The Audio Critic". That magazine may have elicited concerns for other reasons but credit is due for raising awareness to the importance of proper cartridge alignment.
In spite of such limitations, some older tables such as the AR-XA are still capable of providing a satisfying musical experience, just as you learned.